Analysts Weigh in on Applied Materials and Intuit as AI and Stock Markets Intersect

Analysts have considered Applied Materials and Intuit in the context of AI, with one noting AI threats are limited for Intuit, and several others mentioning Applied Materials as a potential AI opportunity despite missing content

Wall Street analysts are weighing in on two major tech names as artificial intelligence reshapes the semiconductor and software landscapes. AMAT has drawn bullish attention as a critical enabler of AI chip manufacturing, with 23 out of 38 analysts rating the stock a Buy and a median price target of $260. Applied Materials expects semiconductor-equipment revenue to climb more than 20% in 2026, driven by surging demand for advanced logic, DRAM, and advanced packaging tied to AI workloads.

Meanwhile, INTU has faced investor anxiety over AI disruption, with shares falling roughly 50% from recent highs. However, analysts largely view those fears as overdone. Rothschild & Co Redburn upgraded Intuit to Buy on March 10, citing its core products QuickBooks and TurboTax as among the most robust against AI risks, protected by rich proprietary data, regulatory moats, and network effects. Mizuho reiterated its Outperform rating with an $875 price target, while 19 of 21 analysts maintain a Strong Buy consensus.

The divergent narratives highlight a broader market theme: AI is both a growth catalyst and a perceived threat depending on a company's positioning. For Applied Materials, AI drives hardware demand across its semiconductor equipment portfolio. For Intuit, the question is whether AI agents could displace its tax and accounting software, though most analysts believe AI will strengthen rather than erode the company's competitive moat.